Marvin Vangilder: Symbolic tents define a serious need

Symbolic tents, not specifically designed for shelter but conveying a serious message of need, are appearing in growing numbers on the lawns of churches throughout the nation.

Marvin Vangilder

Symbolic tents, not specifically designed for shelter but conveying a serious message of need, are appearing in growing numbers on the lawns of churches throughout the nation.

The Tents of Hope are designed to call attention to and stimulate contributions toward suffering thousands, perhaps millions, of homeless, shelterless refugees in Darfur, Sudan.

As a further means of explaining and clarifying the extent of the need, thousands of congregations from across the continent plan to fold, pack and transport their special, artfully decorated tents, in November, to Washington, D.C., to serve as centerpieces for a massive rally for compassion.

The entire event is a project of Global Ministries, an international effort including many churches in virtually every civilized nation ln Europe, Australia, North Africa, North America and South America and representing virtually every mainline denomination within Christendom.

The great need is clear and real. It should receive widespread support and participation.

However, I would be remiss if I neglected to point out that charity is best begun at home. Therefore, according to basic Christian ideals, we must suggest that equally intense effort now should be invested in helping deal with the needs of growing numbers of homeless, jobless and frustrated persons in many American cities. Their needs also should be the subjects of prayer, public exhibitions and widespread funding efforts throughout the civilized world.

The application of Christian compassion and Christian muscle should result in providing hope wherever there is need and compassion wherever there is pain or hunger.

Clearly there is a need for many more “Tents of Hope” and an even greater volume of Christian love poured out selflessly to lift, protect and inspire the multitudes of the needy worldwide.